Netflix Korea's highly anticipated spinoff 'Mantis,' set in the same universe as the breakout hit 'Kill Boksoon,' is bringing a fresh slate of assassins to screens in what promises to be a visually stunning action spectacle. The film stars Im Si-wan, Park Gyu-young, and Jo Woo-jin in a deadly competition for the top killer position, featuring elaborate fight sequences and stylized violence that builds upon the success of its predecessor.
The story follows Han-wool, portrayed by Im Si-wan, a skilled assassin who operates under the codename 'Mantis.' After returning from an extended hiatus, Han-wool discovers that the coveted number one position among professional killers has suddenly become available. This opportunity sets the stage for an intense three-way competition as Han-wool finds himself locked in lethal combat with two formidable rivals: Jae-yi, played by Park Gyu-young, and Dok-go, portrayed by Jo Woo-jin. All three characters are equally determined to claim the throne as the top assassin.
Interestingly, the connection between Im Si-wan and the 'Mantis' character has deeper roots than initially planned. During a press conference, Im revealed the unexpected origin of his involvement with the project. 'When filming Kill Boksoon, there was a reference to the character Mantis in the script,' he explained. 'The director reached out to ask if I could make a voice cameo as Mantis. Although it ultimately didn't happen, from that moment on, I was given the name Mantis.' This serendipitous beginning led to what Im considers a destined role, adding, 'In a way, I think it was destined that I would end up doing this film. I naturally waited for that destiny until the shoot began.'
Im Si-wan, who audiences know from his lead role in the acclaimed drama 'Misaeng' and his appearances in 'Squid Game' Seasons 2 and 3, approached this action-heavy role with full commitment despite anticipated challenges. 'I thought I'd go through a lot of hardship because of the action scenes, but I accepted it,' he stated. The actor emphasized how his portrayal differs from typical screen assassins, explaining, 'It's easy for killers to come across as flawless and untouchable, but in Mantis, I think I'll be able to show a more human side by blending the qualities of someone just starting out in society. Even as a contract killer, he's a character who loves society, so I think I can showcase a more diverse range of traits.'
The film's action sequences center around Im's character wielding dual sickles, a weapon choice that directly connects to his assassin nickname. 'My character fights with sickles in both hands. I think the nickname Mantis came from that striking visual,' Im noted. 'Since I had no experience using dual sickles, I had to train at an action school until I got used to it.' This intensive preparation was necessary to execute the film's highly choreographed and stylized combat scenes that promise to set 'Mantis' apart from conventional action films.
Director Lee Tae-sung emphasized that despite the film's focus on spectacular action, emotional depth remains at its core. 'Our film isn't about characters moving simply because of events. They act and make choices based on subtle emotions,' Lee explained. 'It didn't feel right to strip emotions away just because an action scene was happening.' This approach ensures that the stylized violence serves the character development and storytelling rather than existing purely for visual spectacle.
Im Si-wan particularly highlighted the film's climactic sequence, which he believes will be the most memorable for audiences. 'The scene they can look forward to would have to be the ending scene,' he teased. 'There's a three-way fight sequence – a 1:1:1 battle among the three characters. It's not the kind of sequence you often see elsewhere, and it also had to capture the sharp emotional confrontations between us. I hope people will look forward to seeing whether it turned out as well as we had intended.' This unique three-way battle format promises to deliver both technical innovation and emotional intensity.
Viewers should note that this Netflix film should not be confused with the SBS series 'Queen Mantis,' which is currently streaming on Netflix and shares the same Korean title 'Mantis.' The Netflix film 'Mantis' premieres on Friday, offering fans of 'Kill Boksoon' an expanded look into that universe's world of professional assassins, complete with new characters, enhanced action sequences, and the promise of both visual spectacle and emotional storytelling.
